My dear brother Johnny Parish was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic colon cancer on May 5th, 2024.

It had already spread extensively, covering his liver, lungs and spine.

Johnny and Heidi opted to begin aggressive treatments as soon as possible, not only to prolong his life, but to help with his chronic cough and to ease his excruciating back and stomach pain. The family also did an obscene amount research on alternative and natural treatments and found a number of factors that could help keep Johnny alive and comfy a bit longer. There were also many prayers, much fasting, and countless petitions to God to grant him a little more time on this earth.

Johnny had his first chemo treatment on May 22, 3 days before his oldest daughter Emma’s wedding.

He was grateful to attend the ceremony, albeit with the aid of an “old man walker”. After resting at home, he showed up at Emma’s reception just in time for the daddy-daughter dance.

We could almost see the angels surrounding them. It was a sweet, sacred and unforgettable moment.

Instead of the customary boisterous cheering when the dance ended, there was only quiet reverence. Everyone watched, most cried. We were all praying the same silent prayer:“Please God, let Johnny live to dance with Libby (Emma’s twin) at *her wedding in October.”

Evidently, that was not God’s will.

Johnny passed away on Pioneer Day~July 24th, 2024~ 11 weeks after diagnosis.

He fought to the bitter end with love in his heart and a joke on his tongue.

(To his wife: “I’m gonna haunt you, babe.”)

When Heidi asked if he wanted to be buried or cremated, he responded: “I wanna ROT.”

(Die cancer DIE!)

With three kids still living at home and two weddings in 6 months, my newly- widowed sister-in-law Heidi is struggling to stay above water, and concerned about the future.

Please consider donating $5 or more.

*Every dollar is appreciated!*

All funds donated will go towards keeping the family afloat and paying the chemo/medical bills.

We are truly touched by the outpouring of love, support and generosity!❤️

~Deb/Debbie Parish Passey, on behalf of the entire Parish Family